Review Summary: Fallen doesn't break new ground, but with Zak Stevens at the helm and pristine production, it’s a familiar yet majestic ride through the halls of melodic metal glory.
Fallen marked the debut of Archon Angel, a project led by Savatage and Circle II Circle vocalist Zak Stevens. Blending melodic metal with elements of progressive, power, and speed metal, the album delivers a polished and dramatic sound that feels like a natural continuation of Stevens’ legacy.
The production on Fallen is top-notch. Every instrument is cleanly layered, and the mix gives both weight and clarity to the compositions. Zak Stevens’ voice remains a standout, with his commanding midrange and emotional phrasing driving many of the album’s highlights. Instrumentally, the band shines with tight riffs, melodic leads, and tasteful use of orchestration. There are moments of progressive flair that enrich the album’s structure, and Stevens' fondness for vocal canons (a hallmark of his Savatage days) returns effectively in a few key moments.
But while expertly crafted, Fallen does little to surprise seasoned listeners of the genre. Its structure and dynamics follow familiar paths, and the songwriting, while solid, rarely deviates from expectations. The progressive elements and vocal layering offer some variation, but the overall formula leans heavily on genre conventions.
Best Tracks: Fallen (a powerful opener with an epic, cinematic feel and touches of Savatage's Tonight He Grins Again), Rise (hard-hitting and driven, it features a surprisingly sharp and expressive guitar solo), Hit the Wall (starts with an excellent bass line that sets a darker tone), and Return of the Storm (a fast-paced track that flirts with speed metal, highlighted by a beautiful introductory vocal canon)
Conclusion: Fallen is a strong and well-produced debut that will satisfy fans of Zak Stevens and melodic metal. While it may not reinvent the wheel, its passionate execution and polished sound make it a worthy listen.
My Rating: ***
